History and personalities

Switzerland has experienced a long history with the assembling into a confederation of people and cities that have united to preserve common interests. In almost one thousand years, this country has thus accumulated the cultures and competencies to gain independence and a top place in the world.

Of the major personalities who have shaped this identity, one may retain those whose actions characterise the style of Switzerland, which implies that reforms be made in the interest of all, and without precipitation. This is how Jean Calvin, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Henri Dufour contributed to building one of the first liberal democracies in history, freeing the country from the domination of its neighbours. Henri Dunant founded the Red Cross in 1864, thereby gaining for Switzerland a reputation as a land of welcome that has always remained strong.

As for the legendary William Tell, he still embodies the wind of freedom that blows over Switzerland.